Best Times to Cycle in Vietnam

Vietnam Weather Summary

Despite being a relatively small country, Vietnam holds a variety of climates that differ depending on location. Within its over 3,200 kilometres of coastline and dense, tropical inland, three distinct weather patterns can be found.

While one end of the country is experiencing tropical patterns of hot weather and thick humidity, the other end could be on the brink of freezing temperatures and light snowfall. First-time visitors to Vietnam seldom grasp this great difference in climates, but understanding Vietnam’s varying weather patterns can make (or break!) one’s experience of travelling here.

What’s the best means of understanding the different climates of the country? Breaking down the weather variations depending on the four different regions of travel: the mountainous north, the traditional north, central and south Vietnam. The question on all first- time travellers:

Mountainous North

When referring to Vietnam’s mountainous north, there are two distinct climates to keep in mind for travel. The far-north region known by many as Sapa has a dry season, running from October to late March, and a wet season, running from April to September. As mentioned previously, the months of December and January can get very cold (snow is possible, but not always likely), particularly in the evenings.

Generally speaking, for those who are looking for more ideal conditions for visiting the north, the period between October and early April, which marks the traditional ‘dry season’ is the better time to visit. Rainfall is less likely, though appropriate clothing will be required in the colder months. The rainy season (May-September) can make for a beautiful visit as well, however it may make for more soggy explorations.

Trekking and adventure:

For travellers looking to do trekking in the far northern regions of Vietnam, the best conditions are when the weather is cool and dry. September-November is the ideal time to visit, when daytime temperatures hover around 15 to the high 20’s, with cooler nights betwee 10 to low 20’s. While trekking and adventure sport is possible year-round, the late winter months and wet season can make for more trying conditions.

Traditional North

The region of Hanoi and its surrounding provinces are marked by clear winter and summer months. From November to April (winter), temperatures are much cooler, with average temperatures around the low 20’s. Summer spans between May and October, when humid weather, high rainfall and hot temperatures are predominant. For travellers looking to visit Halong Bay, the experience is best avoided between the months of July-September when the rainfall can be heavy and unpredictable (sometimes cancelling trips.)

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam generally refers to the region spanning from Hue to Nha Trang, including the very central regions of Danang and Hoi An. The hot season of the country’s midsection ranges from mid-January to late August (temperatures and humidity climbing as the months carry on), ultimately rolling into the wet season between September-late December. The months between October and November see the most rainfall, often coming in swells alongside typhoons from the east.

Being a touch farther north, Hue’s temperatures tend to be slightly cooler than those of Danang and Hoi An, with a grand mountain range separating the two provinces (creating its own erratic weather patterns).

Farther south down the coast from Hoi An in Quy Nhon, the weather stays strikingly similar, with a dry season the lasts just a touch longer. Extending a bit further to Nha Trang, and the dry season carries on even longer, spanning from early January to late September. Most of the region’s rains fall between the months of October and November, however the rainfall is considerably less than that in Danang and Hoi An.

Finally, in the central highland region of Dalat, the wet season runs between June to October and the dry season from November to May. December and January are also dry, however temperatures can get quite chilly as well. For outdoor adventure seekers, the wet season in Dalat can prove to be a bit more testing.

South Vietnam

South Vietnam is an anomaly compared to the rest of the country, with more steady conditions observed throughout the year. The dry season runs from November to early May, with the highest temperatures being between late February and May. The wet season runs between May to November, with June-August receiving the most rainfall. Unlike its northern neighbours, however, the rainfall in the south is often heavy, but short lived. This means for the travellers who don’t mind braving the squalls, they may still be treated to good weather in the ‘rainy’ season.

The far south of Vietnam (the islands of Phu Quoc and Con Dao) are beautiful year round, enjoying temperatures between the mid 20s and 30’s- ideal for vacations! While there is a small rainy season, squalls are also heavy and short lived.

What is the best time of year to visit Vietnam?

Because the weather of Vietnam greatly varies by region, there is no exact ‘best time’ to visit. In the mountainous north and traditional northern regions (i.e. Sapa and Hanoi, respectively), May to October marks a period of hot and humid weather, accompanied by high rainfall. The opposite period of November to April is defined by cooler, more dry weather, with more extreme variations existing in the mountainous north. Whilst Hanoi can certainly get chilly, December & January in the Sapa region of Vietnam can get properly cold, creating the potential conditions for snow. A bit further down the coast in Central Vietnam, January-August marks a period of hot, semi-humid weather (temperatures hovering in the 30’s), while the opposite period of September-December sees cooler temperatures and potential heavy rains. Finally, in the southern Vietnam regions, November to August means hot and semi-humid weather (central and southern Vietnam are seldom dry), May-October marks the very hot and humid period, with the heaviest rainfall between June-August.

February Overview

For those seeking out the “best month” to visit Vietnam, many would argue February is it. Offering the driest weather, most consistent sun and moderate temperatures, a February visit is ideal in all parts of the country. Sun seekers will find the coast’s beaches are perfect during this time of the year, city dwellers will enjoy exploring the cities with little rain, light humidity and moderate temperatures, and adventure seekers will find this is one of the best times to do some trekking in the northern and highland regions.

North Vietnam

North Vietnam enjoys the perfect combination of blue skies, sunny weather and moderate-to-cool temperatures, with days hovering around the 18 degree mark. Rain is highly uncommon in the region during this time of year, however January’s haze still has a tendency to linger, particularly over water-based areas. For those looking to explore the far northern regions, this is a great time to go, when the weather is nice but the temperatures still remain quite cool. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing!

Central Vietnam

February marks the beginning of the sunny months in central Vietnam. While the skies are clear and the sun shines bright, temperatures are not yet scorching, which make for ideal beach weather. Hoi An and Danang are particularly great to visit during this time, as the daytime isn’t too hot for walking around. An occasional, brief rain may pass through the region, but February tends to be sunny for the most part. The central highland areas are also great to visit during this time, offering great weather with cool temperatures and low humidity. The combination of these together makes for ideal trekking conditions.

South Vietnam

February, much like January, still marks a month of good weather in the south, offering more ideal conditions for the sun seekers. Beach towns are busy thanks to the sun and blue skies, rain is seldom seen, and temperatures are still bearable, hovering around the high 20’s. Of particular note during this time of year are the south’s islands. Not only are the temperatures great, but they also make for some excellent diving conditions around Con Dao.

March Overview

March is at the tail end of the country’s best months to travel. The heat is slowly creeping in, however the sun, clear skies and still relatively low humidity make for perfect travel conditions. Both the south and central regions attract tourists with their perfect sunny days, and the north offers clear skies with cooler temperatures. Again, this month is ideal for anyone looking to do a bit of trekking in the north or highland regions of the country.

North Vietnam

Though temperatures start to creep up a bit higher in the north (an average of 19), the days are still cool enough to explore on foot and the humidity has yet to bring its full force. In the mountainous regions of the country, conditions for visiting are near ideal, with cooler temperatures, great weather and nights getting a bit warmer.

Central Vietnam

March marks the best month for the beaches of central Vietnam. Proper tropical weather settles in with beaming sunny skies and average temperatures in the high 20’s. The ocean has yet to heat up so it offers some solace from the heat, and rainy days are a non-existent threat. The highland regions begin warming up as well, marking the tail end of cooler trekking opportunities.

South Vietnam

The south is the first portion of the country to really break into the heat, and March marks the beginning of that process. Average temperatures are in the low 30s, weather remains dry, though the humidity starts creeping into the climate. The islands are still an excellent getaway during this time period, and water clarity for diving is still at its peak. Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet, Mui Ne, Ho Tram and others are a great visit during this period… if you don’t mind a bit of heat!

April Overview

April is a transitional month in much of Vietnam, carrying some parts of the country from peak weather to its more extreme conditions. The south’s temperatures and humidity begin to rise, which give way to occasional rains. In the central region, the hot weather also increases, though chances of rain are still very rare. The northern part of the country starts to see its cooler temperatures disappear, with an average day sitting around the mid 20’s.

North Vietnam

As the months creep along, the northern portion of the country begins to slip into its hot, wet summer months. The average temperature hovers around 25 degrees, and the later the month gets, the more likely rainfall becomes. The far north, however, still hangs on to its ideal temperatures and dry weather, which continue to make for good trekking conditions.

Central Vietnam

From Danang to Nha Trang, April continues to mark the summer beach months. Temperatures sizzle in the high 20’s and rainfall is non-existent. Other destinations such as Dalat and Hue also enjoy warmer temperatures, making ideal, if not a bit warm, for April visitors.

South Vietnam

April in the south means it’s getting hot! Low 30’s are the average temperature (with the potential to get warmer), and the chance for rain constantly increases. While the region’s beach destinations are still ideal during this time of year, the occasional rain may pass through. With temperatures starting to creep higher, however, the rain offers a cooling break!

May Overview

May is a unique month for traveling in Vietnam, as it offers a variety of different weather patterns. While it’s nice to spend everyday in the sunshine and blue skies, it doesn’t necessarily capture the full essence of life in Vietnam. The northern part of the country sees a continued, gradual rise in temperatures, with the arrival of occasional rains. May marks the beginning of the hot and sticky months, which can prove to be a little less comfortable to travel in. The central region steps into its hot summer months, while the south creeps closer and closer to its full rainy season.

North Vietnam

With temperatures moving towards the high 20’s, the north begins to get hotter as the month rolls on. The chances of rain increase, which offer some respite from the hot summer heat, but the days are still dry for the most part. In the Sapa region of the country, the weather still manages to cooperate for trekking, whereas farther east the rains slowly start to become more common.

Central Vietnam

While May is another ideal beach month for travellers to the central region of Vietnam, the temperatures may have to be battled! Slipping into the low to mid 30’s, the heat calls for a bit of a slower pace to travel… at least on foot! Hue’s weather stays slightly cooler, while farther southwest in the highlands the rain slowly increases.

South Vietnam

As the month of May rolls along, the chances for rain increase. The temperatures sit in the high 20’s, which are brought down slightly when the passing rains roll through. While rain may be a possibility, it still only comes in short, heavy bursts, and is likely to pass.

June Overview

Vietnam’s weather can greatly vary in the month of June depending on the location. While it still offers some good conditions across the country, a bit of rain gear may be necessary in the luggage. Peak temperatures are being hit across the country, which are combatted by occasional bursts of rain. In the north, the summer months have officially started, combining hot weather with potentially heavy rains. The central region sits heavily in the summer months, with high temperatures and a thick humidity hovering over the region. In the south, the rainy season is in full force, with heavy rains expected daily. Thanks to the weather during this time of year, Vietnam moves into its low season.

North Vietnam

North Vietnam, like other parts of the country, sits in the peak summer season, which is marked by high temperatures (low 30’s as an average), heavy rains and potentially stormy conditions. The rains make it all the way north, so trekking during this time is not necessarily recommended.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam still sits in the heart of its summer months, with temperatures steadily on the rise. Days are hot and sunny, rains are scarce and the beaches are busy! Destinations such as Hoi An and Danang may prove to be a bit more uncomfortable to explore on foot due to the high temperatures, though the beaches offer excellent solace from the heat. Hue and Nha Trang offer similar weather, while Dalat sees an increase in rainfall.

South Vietnam

June means the full arrival of the rainy season in the south, with average temperatures hovering around the high 20s. Again, the south has a specific pattern when it comes to rain, and despite the frequent, heavy squalls showering down over the region, they are still apt to pass quite quickly. This being said, travel in the south may still catch some sunny days!

July Overview

July shares the same sentiments as June, offering a variety of different weather patterns across the country. Central Vietnam still hangs on to its hot weather, with the occasional rain slipping in, while the south stays firm in the rainy season. Daily downpours are almost a guarantee. In the north, weather patterns are very similar with high temperatures and daily heavy rains. Trekking during this time is not advised due to the high rainfall.

North Vietnam

July in the north means the summer, rainy months roll along. The weather is hot, sitting in the low 30’s as an average, and rain is a common occurrence. July is usually labeled the wettest month in Hanoi, and travel to Halong Bay and Sapa (for trekking) is not necessarily advised.

Central Vietnam

Unlike the rest of the country, central Vietnam still enjoys its hot summer months devoid of rain. For those seeking solace from the rest of the country’s deluges, Danang, Hoi An, Hue and Nha Trang provide the perfect escape. The temperatures are, however, exceedingly hot, wavering around the mid 30s. Farther south in Dalat, however, the rains have fully arrived and many adventure activities are off limits.

South Vietnam

The south continues into its rainy season, with daily downpours, hot temperatures and heavy humidity. The rain lets up slightly as the month unfolds, and bursts of sunshine can still be found throughout the days. For diving enthusiasts, July marks the last good month for visibility, so any last-minute visits to Con Dao should be booked

August Overview

August is a transitional period in certain parts of the country, particularly in central Vietnam where the hot summer months finally give way to chances of rain. The southern portion of the country still sits in the midst of the rainy season, though the squalls tend to lessen towards the end of the month. In the north, the weather stays mostly the same with hot temperatures and daily rainfall. For those seeking sunny days, central Vietnam’s beach destinations are still the place to go. Trekking is, again, off limits in most places.

North Vietnam

Little changes between July and August, with temperatures still weighing in heavy around the low 30’s and daily rainfall keeping things soggy. While it is still possible to explore Hanoi and Halong Bay during this time, if another month can be chosen, it might be advised. Trekking again is off limits in most parts, and travellers seeking outdoor experiences should keep their focus set on central Vietnam where conditions are still dry.

Central Vietnam

Despite the rest of the country being saturated, central Vietnam hangs on to its last month of hot temperatures and mostly rain-free days, providing a final month of beautiful beach weather. The rains do come in towards the latter half of the month, particularly in Hue. For travellers holding out for the latter part of the month, Nha Trang is the best bet for consistent good weather, while the rest of the central region gets a bit more uncertain. Dalat, once again, is undergoing heavy rains making adventure experiences nearly impossible.

South Vietnam

The south sits strong in the midst of its rainy season, with temperatures in the high 20’s and humidity hanging heavy over much of the area. Rain is a daily occurrence, however its heavy showers bring some respite to the high temperatures. In the spirit of the south, even during the heaviest squalls, there are still chances for the sun to come out, so don’t cross southern Vietnam off your list if you’re visiting in August!

September Overview

September is another transitional month in Vietnam, with weather changing for the better, for the worse, and in some parts, staying almost the same. While the south sits steady in its hot weather, mostly rainy conditions and dene humidity, the central region sees the end of its hot spell. The sunshine and heat of the summer months finally gives way to the much needed rains, which help to cool down the sizzling region. In the north, the weather starts to break for the better, bringing more ideal conditions across the board.

North Vietnam

September in the north means the tail end of the summer season. While the temperatures can still be quite high and rain may occur, the chances lessen towards the latter part of the month. As Hanoi gets more bearable with the weather, the far north gets even more attractive with the near arrival of the trekking season. Towards the end of September, conditions start becoming ideal as the rains slow down and the crops, consequently, are nearing their harvest season (great for photos).

Central Vietnam

The beach weather in Central Vietnam finally starts to disappear after nearly 7 months of sun and heat. While September doesn’t always mean immediate rain and clouds, it does mark the beginning of the full change in seasons. In Hue, Danang and Hoi An, the rains become increasingly more present, though the temperatures still hover in the high 20’s. Farther south in Nha Trang, the rain also arrives (a bit slower), while the highland regions are still entirely saturated.

South Vietnam

September in the south doesn’t bring too much change from the weather of August. While the rains may lessen slightly, they are still a daily possibility and the hot temperatures of the summer still linger heavy in the air. In proper southern spirit, however, visitors can always expect dry spells and sunny days, even when the heaviest rainstorms are passing through.

The north sees a continued improvement in its weather patterns in October, with less rainfall, less humidity and more palatable temperatures. The farther one gets north, the more conditions improve. Unfortunately, in the central region, the weather is doing the opposite, with rains steadily increasing, temperatures dropping and beach weather quickly disappearing. In the south, the conditions start to improve with lessening rainfall and more consistent sunny days. Conditions for adventure also start returning to the central highlands region during this time. November Overview
North Vietnam

Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau

October marks the end of the rainy season in northern Vietnam. The rains lessen greatly, the temperatures cool down and the country moves into a more dry spell, particularly towards the latter part of the month. For the adventure seekers, the far north moves into one of its best times to visit, with little rain, increased sunshine and consistent dry spells. The cooler temperatures start to roll in as well, making the latter parts of the month one of the peak times for visiting both Sapa and Ha Giang.
Central Vietnam

Hoi An, Danang, Hue, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands

Again, things only go downhill in Central Vietnam, with October marking the start of the true rainy season. Between Hue, Danang and Hoi An, the storms start rolling in on a consistent basis with temperatures dropping and little sunshine hitting the region. Storms from the Philippines are constantly hitting the central coast region, making travel wet and windy. The weather continues south to Nha Trang where rains are on the rise and temperatures also start dropping. Beach weather in these regions disappears until the turn of the new year. On a positive note, the central highland area of Vietnam begins to open up again, with the wet weather slowly disappearing. This means adventure activities are starting to become a possibility again.
South Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Ho Tram & Long Hai, Con Dao & Phu Quoc

While the central region moves further into its rainy season, the south slowly crawls out of theirs. The rains continue to lessen, becoming quite sparse towards the latter part of the month. Temperatures slowly increase towards the upper 20’s and sunny days are a frequent occurrence. Beach weather slowly comes back to the south, with destinations such as Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Phan Thiet and Mui Ne receiving more sunshine and less rain. While not every day is a guaranteed beach day, the chances increase towards the end of the month.

November marks a great period of weather for some parts of the country, and not so great weather for other parts. If you’re looking to visit Vietnam in November, it’s best to keep your eyes on the extreme ends of the country. North Vietnam moves into its most pleasant part of the year, with rains seldom passing through, sunshine a more frequent occurrence and temperatures are downright pleasant. Similarly, in the south, the weather also is on the rise, with frequent sunny days making for ideal touring and beach going. In the central region, however, the opposite is happening. Weather is reaching its peak rainy season, making touring interesting… but very wet!
North Vietnam

Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau

During November, north Vietnam enjoys its best weather of the year. Temperatures hover around the mid 20’s, rains are few and the sun shines daily without bringing unbearable temperatures. In the far northern regions, this is the peak season for visiting, with Yen Bai, Sapa and Ha Giang enjoying absolutely beautiful weather. For trekkers, this is the best time to visit! On the other end of the northern travel spectrum, November is also a great month to head to the northern coast where Halong Bay enjoys beautiful, clear conditions.

Central Vietnam

For travellers heading to central Vietnam in November… remember your rain gear! The rainy season is at its peak in November, bringing heavy rains, strong winds, little sun, and surprisingly cool temperatures. Hue and Danang experience heavy rains and Hoi An’s ancient town can be expected to be underwater during some parts of the month. Nha Trang doesn’t escape the central region’s rainy season either, with the majority of its annual rainfall coming during this month. Ironically, a few hours west, the central highland region is expected to have little rain during this time, and November can be an ideal time to visit!

South Vietnam

November in southern Vietnam means the return of summer weather. Temperatures creep back up towards the high 20’s, rains seldom pass through (and humidity drops increasingly), and sunny days make for perfect beach weather and city exploring. All of the south’s popular beach destinations experience excellent weather during this time, proving to be ideal for sun and sand seekers.

December is a great month for almost all destinations in Vietnam, as weather either stays the same or turns for the better. The northern part of the country continues to enjoy its sunny, cool, rain-free weather, with the far north still enjoying good conditions for trekking. The south continues to enjoy classic beach weather in all its destinations, and central Vietnam slowly moves towards the latter part of its rainy season, with Nha Trang being the first area to return to sun and good weather.

North Vietnam

December in the north continues positive, with low humidity (and therefore little rain), moderate temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Both Hanoi and the far north see their driest time of the year in December, however temperatures can get low. Particularly if travelling to the far north, be sure to bring appropriate clothing to combat the cold nighttime weather.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam begins to move into the latter part of its rainy season in December, with conditions remaining cool, slightly damp and temperatures remaining on the cooler side (Hue, Hoi An, Danang.) While storms may still come through during this time, the chances decrease with the passing of the month. Farther south, Nha Trang moves into better weather, with temperatures on the rise and rainfall steadily declining. Further west, Dalat and the central highlands region continue to enjoy dry weather, however temperatures can get quite cool.

South Vietnam

The south enjoys some of the best conditions of the year in December, proving to be an ideal escape from the grips of the rainy season in the central region. Blue skies, warm temperatures and practically no rain are expected across the region, with beach weather available from Mui Ne to Phu Quoc. While Ho Chi Minh’s temperatures hover around the moderate side, the island getaways enjoy hotter temperatures, perfect for coastal activities.